Do you use a mini pc?

[Dead2009]

Apparently they get the job done just like an actual computer, I was wondering if anyone here uses one and if you do, which one would you prefer?

 

[jimmymc]

I personally don't, but if you just need to browse the web and read emails, they do work.

 

[_19disnA]

Do you mean something like an ipad which is just a screen and no keyboard? I prefer to use a real keyboard/full-size screen when planning to do any sort of typing such as composing an email/etc. Laptops are available in various screen sizes. While you can surf the internet on your smartphone, the tiny screen often jumbles the display and has issues with word-wrap since many sites seem formatted for best viewing on a full-size screen.

As with anything computer related, it tends to depend on what your preferences are, what your budget is and how exactly you plan to use it.

 

[BrianL]

Do you mean something like an ipad which is just a screen and no keyboard? I prefer to use a real keyboard/full-size screen when planning to do any sort of typing such as composing an email/etc. Laptops are available in various screen sizes. While you can surf the internet on your smartphone, the tiny screen often jumbles the display and has issues with word-wrap since many sites seem formatted for best viewing on a full-size screen.

As with anything computer related, it tends to depend on what your preferences are, what your budget is and how exactly you plan to use it.

No, this would be like a full PC in a very small form factor. They can build them that way now, though they usually aren't super powerful compared to larger desktops. I did get one for my parents recently to run a CNC machine and it works well.

OP, just makes sure it has the specs that you need for whatever you want to do with it. If it's just basic Internet and office stuff, you should be fine with most units.

 

[kdonnel]

I have an Intel NUC that is used as a home server. It runs Plex, Homebridge, Pi-Hole, and a few other services. It has been running for 5+ years now.

I also have a Raspberry Pi 3b+ that runs a second Pi-Hole instance.

For my regular daily computer I use an M1 Mac Mini which fits in the small form factor mold I guess.

 

[gmi3804]

We don't even have a PC/desktop (or a printer) anymore. Just a MacBook, iPad (with smart keyboard) and iPhone, all of which are linked and can do pretty much anything I need to do, personally and for my business. The two or three times a year I need something printed, I'll print it at the office. And I'm a real estate broker!

 

[EACarlson]

I use one for work. My biggest complaint with it is that it's difficult if not impossible to upgrade any parts of it if desired. I have a full size tower gaming PC that I build. For most people that aren't doing anything graphics intensive it would be fine. And you can usually find them for like $200 with a decent processor. RAM size can be a little small sometimes though.

 

[firefly_ris]

I have an Intel NUC and its sole job is to run my Plex server. It's been doing a good job, no issues.